Boxing Day 2024 is nearly upon us, and shoppers are gearing up for one of the busiest shopping days of the year. Traditionally observed on December 26th, Boxing Day has transformed over the years from its charitable origins to become synonymous with post-Christmas sales and discounts.
The practice of holding sales on Boxing Day gained traction after the late 1990s when changes to Sunday trading laws allowed retail stores to operate on Bank Holidays. This shift changed the social dynamics of shopping, making it more commonplace to engage with retail even after the Christmas festivities have concluded.
With the Boxing Day sales just around the corner, the Trafford Centre, one of the UK’s largest shopping malls, is preparing for thousands of shoppers flocking to hunt for bargains. Spanning over 100 stores, the Trafford Centre promises numerous discounts across various outlets, making it a prime location for Boxing Day shopping.
According to the Manchester Evening News, most stores will be open on December 26th. Specific retailers, including Beaverbrooks, M&S, and NEXT, have confirmed they will remain closed on Boxing Day 2024. The Trafford Centre itself will welcome shoppers from 8 AM until 8 PM on the day, with many individual stores potentially varying their hours.
Compounded by these retail opportunities, Boxing Day also presents shoppers with the chance to save on travel. With airlines and travel companies slashing prices, potential travelers can look forward to outstanding deals. For example, domestic flights within Australia are available from as low as $39, with enticing rates to international destinations as well. For those eyeing travel options for their 2025 holidays, this year’s Boxing Day deals may be the ideal opportunity to book flights and accommodations.
Flight Centre has announced significant discounts on flights to popular destinations with return fares starting from $343 to Singapore and as low as $1289 for flights to the UK on China Southern Airlines, before promotional prices previously set. Other airlines like Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar are offering competitive fares, making it too hard to resist for soon-to-be travelers.
Discounts extend beyond airfare. Luggage retailers have joined the fray, enticing consumers with discounts of 40 to 50% off select products. Brands like Antler and American Tourister are showcasing massive sales days, encouraging customers to stock up on travel essentials as they prepare for upcoming adventures.
With enticing offers on flights and accommodations, travelers can find rooms at luxurious resorts with packages including daily breakfasts and children staying and eating for free. For example, the Ayodya Resort Bali offers incredible deals as part of its return to packaged holidays; five nights starting from $1799, complete with meals and exclusive activities.
Myer and other retailers have also jumped on board with considerable discounts on popular products like electronics and luggage. For example, the renowned Bose QuietComfort SE Headphones are listed at $299.95, down from $499.95. Another hot deal is the Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones, with prices slashed to $329.95 from $549.
Beyond travel and tech, fashion enthusiasts can take advantage of post-Christmas sales, making it the perfect occasion to give your wardrobe a refresh. Retailers are pushing discounts of up to 70% on selected items, with prominent brands actively promoting their Boxing Day sales to attract eager shoppers.
Booking.com, Expedia, and Wotif are also getting involved, promoting last-minute weekend stays at discounted rates. With at least 20% off joining the fray, traveling this Boxing Day promises excellent advantages for both short and long trips.
Consumers hoping for experiences can find exclusive deals on attraction passes, cruises, and adventure attractions, making it the perfect time to engage with tourism experiences. Adrenaline junkies can enjoy activities like skydiving or hot air balloon rides, all under promotional pricing for the holiday season.
The IPT Digital Online was Bullet's apart, sharing insights on trending offers targeted toward travelers. Exclusive deals on selected vehicles available through Budget Australia promise even more accessibility for holiday travel. With rentals starting as low as $1 per day, mobility during the festive season couldn't be easier.
For the avid shoppers, the countdown to Boxing Day is increasingly exciting as the prospect of snagging great deals rises. Whether it's for immediate needs, post-Christmas purchases, or travel adventures, the time-honored tradition of Boxing Day sales remains relevant and exciting.
A consumer advisor cautioned, "If you’re heading out to shop this Boxing Day, it's prudent to plan your route and make sure you know which stores you want to visit, especially with the dynamics of opening hours, enabling you to maximize your savings." That said, successful shopping—be it for fashion, electronics, or travel—depends on preparation and strategy.
